Our research covers a wide range of test types and materials, developing new methods to characterise advanced materials across the nano-micro-macro-structural scales, for both in-operando and ex-operando situations. We develop international standards to ensure our techniques are accepted by governing bodies to qualify materials for use in demanding environments, and understanding of the mechanisms which control the performance of the material.
We are carrying out research into new test methods and procedures, so that we have the capability to support industry to test new materials or for new applications. This includes:
Installation of a new, state of the art mechanical test facility in collaboration with Instron using the latest static, high rate and fatigue test machines.
We are understanding the microstructure of materials and the testing which is needed, including:
We are developing a high temperature nanoindentation apparatus, in collaboration with a UK manufacturer, which will be to produce reliable procedures to determine the surface condition of materials at temperatures up to 900 °C and extend the understanding of their performance in harsh environments.
Test methods for the use of an in situ indenter apparatus within an electron microscope are being developed. Pillar and cantilever manufacture methods using focused ion beam milling are being studied with emphasis on structural damage due to ion implantation, true sample geometry variations, microstructural variation and substrate compliance.
Although some of these test methods have been developed for particular materials, they may also be applicable to other classes of material.